Chapter 1 - System Introduction 1-1
Chapter 1 System Introduction

1.1 Features

The AcerAltos 19000 is a powerful 64-bit dual-processor capable system loaded
with a host of new and innovative features. The system offers a new standard for
flexible productivity ideal for local area networks and multiuser server
environments.

1.1.1 Intel Pentium Pro Processor

The Intel Pentium Pro processor is the heart of the AcerAltos 19000 system.
Designed to work with the Intel 450 PCIset composed of a PCI bridge and
memory controller, the Pentium Pro running at 200 MHz carries a new generation
of power not present in its predecessors.
The system board has two CPU sockets to accommodate two Intel Pentium Pro
processors for a dual-processor configuration. In this configuration Symmetric
MultiProcessing (SMP) significantly increases overall system performance. The
AcerAltos 19000 system supports a wide range of applications running under MP
operating systems such as WindowsNT, UNIX, and NetWare.
The CPU also incorporates first-level (L1) and second-level (L2) caches, an
advanced peripheral interrupt controller (APIC), and the system bus controller.
Figure 1-1 shows the CPU architecture.
First-level and Second-level Cache
The Pentium Pro design integrates both 16-KB first-level and 256 KB second-level
cache. These caches produce high hit rates that reduce the processor’s external
memory bandwidth requirements.